Spring Maintenance Checklist – More Than Cleaning

A lot of homeowners start spring with cleaning. Sure, it’s a great time to take on cleaning, but there is more maintenance that should be done too. While spotless windows are great, a leaking roof can ruin your summer glow. While spring is a great time to head outside for a picnic or hike, it’s also time to set out to handle your spring maintenance checklist – it’s more than cleaning.

Gutters and downspouts

Give your gutter and downspouts some love to start the season. Winter weather can cause them to separate. Once the gutters are clean, use a hose to check drainage. You’ll want to make sure there is proper draining away from your house and landscaping. If leaks allow water to drain down the house, use caulking or epoxy to seal the leaks. Use spouts to direct water away from structures.

House

Exterior walls can get dingy and dirty over the winter months. Inspect all of your walls for signs of water intrusion or paint failure. If you find areas that need repair, get a professional to help you with these issues. Once water gets in through your paint, there is no turning back. It will cause further damage underneath it. Once the repairs are made, sand and paint the area to match the rest of the house.

Caulking

Caulking gets old and brittle. When this happens it can crack and fall away. It allows pests, light, and heat to enter your home. Rather, scrape out the old caulk and put new up. Common areas for this problem include around windows, doors, and roofing. Remember to make repairs with paintable caulk. This way after some painting, the repairs will be invisible.

Foundation

Your foundation is important, it holds your whole home up. Look at the foundation walls, floors, concrete, and masonry for cracking or deterioration. Cracks larger than a nickel or bricks that are losing their mortar will require a professional to address the problem.

Roof

Your roof should be looked at regularly and spring is a perfect time. While you’re looking at the top of your house, look at the eaves and soffits too. Make sure the tiles are secure and the soffits don’t show signs of paint failure. Now could be a good time for a thorough pressure cleaning of the roof to best see if there are further problems.

Deck and Porches

Surely you’re planning on spending time outside on your decks and porches. Whether they are wooden or concrete, it’s time to pressure wash and inspect. For a patio, now could be the perfect time to add an epoxy finish. The coating will give you a finished look that will stand up to weather for years to come. Decks and fences can also benefit from power washing. Afterward, add paint or stain to protect the wood. You can also add color that will enhance the look of your home. These wooden elements need to be sealed or painted every 4-6 years.

Landscaping

In preparation for summer, or further inspection and repairs, spring is the perfect time to do some landscaping. Bushes and vegetation will hinder repairs and inspections. Your landscaping will be set up to flourish this summer and painters and repairmen will thank you.

Painting

Spring is the perfect time to add a new, fresh color to your house. This is especially important if you have repairs to make. Exterior paint will last up to a decade with quality paint and professional application. If your paint is due to be updated, take advantage of shorter wait times and more readily available paint crews in spring.

Schedule Today

If it’s time to pressure wash or paint your house, we’re here to help. Schedule a free, no-obligation estimate appointment today to discuss your project.